From gold to the glitterball trophy: Olympians Victoria Pendleton and Louis Smith to join Strictly Come Dancing

Last month, they wowed the nation with their stunning athleticism at the London 2012 Olympics.
And now lets hope Victoria Pendleton and Louis Smith will be just as successful on the dancefloor.
The cyclist, 31, and gymnast, 23, are set to appear in the new series of Strictly Come Dancing.

 

 

From Olympians to dancing king and queen? Victoria Pendleton (left) and Louis Smith are tipped to join Strictly Come Dancing

Retired Pendleton, who won a gold and silver last month, has openly spoken about her desire to take part in the BBC1 show.
In an interview last month, she said: 'I can’t dance and I’ve always wanted to be able to, so I’d really enjoy that. Plus, I’ve been in sweaty Lycra for the last I don’t know how many years, so being in a sparkly frock and high heels really appeals to me.
'Instead of wearing a helmet it will be lovely to have my hair smooth and sleek. I’m really into my beauty products, it’s been my one indulgence. I haven’t been able to drink and don’t go out so tottering around the beauty counter is the only way I’ve rewarded myself.'

 

Swapping Lycra for glitter: Victoria winning the Women's Keirin in the Olympics last month

 

Concentration: Louis on the pommel horse during the Artistic Gymnastics Men's Team final

Smith, who won silver on the pommel horse and bronze in the men's team gymnastics, is also set to start.
Former cricket captain Michael Vaughan is also rumoured to be joining the ballroom dancing contest.
On Saturday, former Girls Aloud singer Kimberley Walsh confirmed she was on the show by posting a Twitter photo of herself in a spangly red costume.
She also posted a photo of her with professional dancer Anton Du Beke, but pointed out he wasn't her partner.

 

Game on: Kimberley Walsh confirmed she was appearing on SCD on her Twitter page

Other stars confirmed include Westlife's Nicky Byrne, Daybreak presenter Richard Arnold and actress Dani Harmer.
Former children's TV host Johnny Ball, model Jerry Hall, EastEnders actor Sid Owen, TV presenter Fern Britton, former Emmerdale actress Lisa Riley and James Bond actor Colin Salmon are also expected to star.
However, Denise Van Outen appears to have denied she is on the show.
She tweeted on Sunday night: 'What's this I hear about me doing #scd?'
The launch show is to be broadcast on BBC1 on Saturday, when the celebrities' dance partners will be announced.

 

Back again: Presenters Bruce Forsyth and Tess Daly will host the show again